How to store a rowing machine upright

Can your rower stand upright?

Check the manual or the maker's website. Rowers designed for upright storage usually say so in their listing and have wheels or a base at the front end to stand on.

Examples include the Concept2 RowErg, which can stand on end or separate into two parts, WaterRower models, which are designed to stand upright with the tank at the bottom, and many magnetic rowers that fold or tip onto wheels. Our guide to the best rowing machines for small spaces lists models chosen for this.

If the manual does not mention upright storage, do not stand the rower on end. The frame or rail joint may not be designed for the strain.

How much does a rowing machine weigh?

Water rowers are heavier when full. Leave the water in when standing them up only if the maker's instructions say so; WaterRower designs are built to stand upright with the tank full.

How to raise a rower safely

1. 1

   Clear the space where the rower will stand and the path to it.

2. 2

   Move the seat to the front end of the rail and secure it if the manual says to.

3. 3

   Stand at the back of the rail, bend your knees and lift the rear end with a straight back.

4. 4

   Walk your hands along the rail as you raise it, letting the front end rest on its wheels or base.

5. 5

   Once upright, check that it stands steadily and does not rock.

6. 6

   Use any locking pin, strap or wall anchor the maker provides.

Note:Ask for help if the rower is heavy for you. Keep children and pets away while raising or lowering it, and never leave an upright rower where it can be pulled over.

Wall clearance and anchoring

An upright rower needs space in front of the wall for its base and a little clearance above its top end. Measure the rower's length and check your ceiling height, especially under a sloping roof or in a cellar.

Stand it close to a wall so it cannot fall backwards, and use a wall strap or anchor if the maker offers one. Some makers, such as Hydrow, sell a dedicated kit for upright storage. A rower that only leans against a wall can slide or be knocked over.

Lowering it again

Reverse the steps. Hold the rail firmly, step back and lower it gradually, bending your knees. Do not let it drop, as this can damage the rail, the seat rollers and the floor.

Once it is down, slide the seat back along the rail and check it glides smoothly before rowing. If the rail feels gritty, wipe it; see our rowing machine maintenance guide.

Folding rowers

Some rowers fold the rail up instead of standing the whole machine on end. Folding usually involves a pin or lever at the hinge. Make sure it clicks fully into place when folded and unfolded. Our guide to rowing machine dimensions gives in-use and stored sizes for common models.

If you are choosing a rower for a small space, our best rowing machines for small spaces and best magnetic rowing machines guides list rowers that store compactly.

See rowers for small spaces →

Frequently asked questions

Can a Concept2 RowErg be stored upright? Yes. Concept2 designs it to stand on end or separate into two parts. Follow its instructions.

Can I store a water rower upright with water in it? WaterRower models are designed to stand upright with the tank full. For other brands, check the manual.

How much space does an upright rower need? Roughly the area of its front base, plus clearance above. Check the stored footprint in the listing.

Do I need to fix an upright rower to the wall? Use a wall strap or anchor where the maker offers one, especially in homes with children or pets.